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Microfluidics Research Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

Microfluidics Research Engineer information

What is the difference between Microfluidics Research Engineer vs Microfluidics Design Engineer?

AspectMicrofluidics Research EngineerMicrofluidics Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Chemical, or Biomedical Engineering; experience in microfluidic systemsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Biomedical Engineering; focus on device design
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic institutionsDesign studios, R&D teams, industry manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech companies, universitiesMedical device companies, biotech firms, startups

While both roles involve microfluidic technologies, the Microfluidics Research Engineer focuses on experimental research and development, whereas the Microfluidics Design Engineer emphasizes designing and prototyping microfluidic devices. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microfluidics Research Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Microfluidics Research Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering or physical sciences, with expertise in fluid dynamics, microfabrication, and analytical techniques, usually backed by a relevant degree (e.g., mechanical, biomedical, or chemical engineering). Familiarity with CAD software, photolithography, cleanroom protocols, and simulation tools like COMSOL Multiphysics is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective teamwork and communication abilities distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing innovative microfluidic devices, troubleshooting complex systems, and successfully collaborating on multidisciplinary research projects.

What are microfluidics research engineers?

Microfluidics research engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test devices and systems that manipulate small amounts of fluids, often at the microliter scale or smaller. They work at the intersection of engineering, physics, chemistry, and biology to create technologies used in areas such as medical diagnostics, drug development, and chemical analysis. Their work often involves fabricating microfluidic chips, optimizing fluid flow, and integrating sensors or other components. Microfluidics research engineers play a key role in advancing lab-on-a-chip devices and other innovations that enable rapid, precise analyses. They may work in academic, industrial, or clinical research settings.

What are some common challenges faced by Microfluidics Research Engineers when scaling prototypes to production?

Microfluidics Research Engineers often encounter challenges when transitioning from prototype devices to scalable production, including maintaining precise control over fluid dynamics at larger volumes, ensuring reproducibility, and selecting appropriate materials that are both manufacturable and compatible with biological or chemical samples. Additionally, integrating sensors and electronic components without compromising device performance can be complex. Collaborating closely with manufacturing teams and regulatory specialists is crucial to address these challenges and ensure a successful scale-up.
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Infographic showing various Microfluidics Research Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.
Research Fellow - Cellular Microsystems & Biosensors

Research Fellow - Cellular Microsystems & Biosensors

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

$67K - $78K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 691 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

The Cellular Microsystems and Biosensors Laboratory at Mayo Clinic is seeking highly motivated, self-driven postdoctoral fellows to join a large collaborative and interdisciplinary research team focused on developing microdevices for cell analysis, cultivation and transplantation.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to fast-paced projects aimed at developing next generation diagnostic and cell therapy technologies.  Our laboratory is well equipped for cell/molecular biology and biomedical engineering research.  It also includes a cleanroom facility for fabricating and testing microdevices. The laboratory has established an extensive network of collaborations with clinicians and biologists at Mayo Clinic to ensure translational impact of technology development.  Our work is published in high-impact journals (Microsystems and Nanoengineering, Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Advanced Science, Bioactive Materials) and is supported by funding from federal agencies (ARPA-H and NIH) and private foundations.


Qualifications

Qualified candidates should hold a PhD with research experience in one or more of the following topics: bioelectronics, microfabrication, cells in microfluidics and device transplantation.   Experience assessing host response to implanted devices or tissue engineered constructs is a plus.   


Exemption Status
Exempt
Compensation Detail
$67,282.95 - $78,711.15 / year; Education, experience and tenure may be considered along with internal equity when job offers are extended.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
80
Schedule Details
Monday - Friday
Weekend Schedule
as needed
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the 'EOE is the Law'.  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Recruiter
Kara SchottQualifications:

Qualified candidates should hold a PhD with research experience in one or more of the following topics: bioelectronics, microfabrication, cells in microfluidics and device transplantation.   Experience assessing host response to implanted devices or tissue engineered constructs is a plus.   


What Mayo Clinic employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919